The 13th Floor [PA] (CD - 2009)

Personnel: Morten Veland (vocals, guitar, keyboards, bass guitar); Ailyn (vocals); Michael Krumins (guitar); Jonathan A. Perez (drums).

Programmer: Morten Veland.

With THE 13th FLOOR, Norway's Sirenia unveil their fourth full-length studio album of elegant symphonic metal. Injecting a touch of youthful vigor into the band's sound is the addition of lead female vocalist Ailyn, who gained fame as a contestant on Spain's X FACTOR--a Simon Cowell-organized, European variation of AMERICAN IDOL. Sirena's appeal also lies in their graceful, complex, neo-gothic musical arrangements, which imply a blend of Therion and Within Temptation. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by metal stalwart Tue Madsen (Moonspell, The Haunted, Dark Tranquillity), THE 13TH FLOOR also features a full choir, French violinist Stephanie Valentin, and guest vocalist Jan Kenneth Barkved (who had previously contributed vocals on Sirenia's 2002 debut AT SIXES AND SEVENS). minimize